This circular is sent to principals of all Victorian schools from the Victorian Institute of Teaching.Please ensure that the principal receives this email.

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Dear Principal

Special needs PD update

As part of the Victorian government’s special needs plan, registered teachers are now required to undertake professional development (PD) activities to develop their capability to teacher learners with disability (special needs).

In 2016, 89% of teachers who renewed their registration indicated they had undertaken PD in special needs – this is a fantastic result, however we still have a number of teachers who are yet to complete their PD.

VIT recently communicated these requirements to teachers who are renewing for the first time in 2017 as well as those who had not undertaken special needs PD when they renewed in 2016.

Why is this important?

The Victorian government has made a strong commitment to improving access to and participation in learning for children with special needs. This is consistent with feedback the profession has provided us; teachers told us they didn’t feel equipped to deal with learners who have disability and that they would like more opportunities to understand the needs of these learners to improve learning outcomes.

Recent survey findings of those who have completed special needs PD show positive impacts on learning.